Many aspirants underestimate the preparation that is required for the CSAT in UPSC Prelims. Whereas most of the preparation time and attention goes into the General Studies paper, one cannot afford to take the CSAT lightly, for it forms a qualifying paper. So it seems that scoring 33% is a cakewalk? Well, many aspirants flounder on this account owing to improper preparation. Now, let’s delve deep into how you can prepare properly for the CSAT paper and ensure that it doesn’t become a hurdle in your UPSC journey.
- Understand the Syllabus and Exam Pattern:
The first preparation for the CSAT consists of understanding what the paper comprises. CSAT paper is basically divided into three sections: Comprehension, Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability, and Quantitative Aptitude.
The test is divided into four sections, and each section examines different abilities. Therefore, you need to know your strengths and weaknesses in each one. Each question is for 2.5 marks. Wrong answers will attract negative marks. For every wrong answer, 1/3 mark will be deducted from the total marks of that question.
- Identify Your Current Level
Take a mock CSAT test or solve paper from any of the previous years to get an idea of your standing now. This will let you understand where you stand and which areas require more focus. But if you consistently score above 66 marks, you may have already practiced enough. Otherwise, you might need to focus on sections such as quantitative ability, which pull your marks down.
- Build a Strong Foundation in Basics
For many aspirants, Quantitative Aptitude is the trickiest section of the CSAT paper. In case math isn’t exactly your cup of tea, there isn’t any need to worry. Create a sound base in elementary concepts such as percentages, ratios, averages, time and work, and probability. Start with very simple school level text books or reference books like the one by RS Aggarwal in Quantitative Aptitude. Mastery over the basics will help you in moving on to the tougher questions.
Resource Tip: Khan Academy has some superb, free video tutorials on basic math concepts that may really help for a quick review.
- Practice Comprehension on a Daily Basis
The comprehension section of any CSAT paper can really be a mixed bag— sometimes the passages are genuinely easy, but sometimes they are so dense you really would need a machete to navigate through them. The solution to the problem of acing comprehension in your paper lies in regular practice. Read a variety of texts, from editorials in The Hindu or the Indian Express to articles in Yojana-type magazines. Apart from the reading speed, this will train you to get the gist of a passage quickly.
Resource Tip: Websites like ReadTheory.org offer free reading comprehension exercises at different levels which can be useful practice.
- Improve Your Logical Reasoning
These questions in the CSAT are meant to test your problem-solving ability with regard to logical reasoning and analytical skills. But the good part is that these can be effectively handled with practice. Get started by solving basic puzzles, Sudoku, or reasoning questions. Once you are comfortable with the basics, you should practice at the level of UPSC questions.
Resource Tip: MK Pandey’s Analytical Reasoning would be a good book to study a variety of reasoning questions that are asked in competitive exams.
- Time Management is Key
The CSAT exam is a very time-bound exam. In two hours, one has to attempt 80 questions, so at the maximum, one shouldn’t give more than 1.5 minutes to any question. Time yourself as you practice and watch the length you spend to finish each section. When you start spending too much time on one question, it is better to pass and come back to it later when the time will have permitted.
- Regular Mock Tests
Mock tests are an integral part of the CSAT preparation. They get you in the groove with the pattern and style of the examination, in the habit of time management, and bring to your notice those areas where you are weak. One should attempt one full-length mock test every week in the last two months before the exam. Use the time after each test to understand and conceptualize your mistakes and work towards improving your weak areas.
Resource Tip : Websites such as ClearIAS and Insights on India offer free mock tests simulating actual exam scenarios.
- Stay Cool and Confident
Last but not the least, remember that the paper on CSAT is of a qualifying nature; it is meant to test aptitude and not meant to trick you with. Keep cool; you have prepared well, so be confident and approach the paper with a cool and clear head. If ever there are mistakes in an exam, it is because one thinks too much or there is a feeling of panic while solving the paper. So, go on and solve one question after another in a systematic way.
